Milton facing lawsuit by Massachusetts for refusing to add multi-family homes amid migrant crisis

Massachusetts Attorney General Joy Campbell has filed a lawsuit against the town of Milton, alleging non-compliance with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Communities Law. The lawsuit, announced on Tuesday, February 27th, has sparked controversy and highlighted the ongoing debate over housing regulations and enforcement in the state, against the backdrop of a migrant crisis and a housing shortage.

Massachusetts is facing a dual crisis, with a surge in illegal immigration and a persistent shortage of affordable housing. The MBTA Communities Law, enacted to address the region-wide need for housing, requires that MBTA communities have at least one zoning district where multi-family housing is permitted as of right.

The law sets specific criteria for these zones, including a minimum gross density of 15 units per acre and proximity to public transportation hubs such as commuter rail stations, subway stations, ferry terminals, or bus stations. Additionally, the housing must be suitable for families with children and cannot have age restrictions.

In a statement posted on Twitter, Attorney General Campbell emphasized the importance of enforcing the law, stating, “The housing crisis is going to take all of us to solve, which is why we filed a suit today against Milton. Compliance with [the MBTA Communities Law] is mandatory. My Office will not hesitate to enforce the law.”

The lawsuit comes at a critical time for Massachusetts, as the state grapples with the challenges of providing adequate housing for both its residents and the influx of migrants. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for housing policy and enforcement across the state, making it a topic of considerable interest and debate among policymakers, residents, and housing advocates.